Deep in the Amazon Forest in South America, the acai berry grows. This long, reddish/purple fruit has long been held as a healing tonic for the natives indigenous to the area. With the introduction of the acai fruit to the United States, it has quickly grown in popularity as one of the super foods. This popularity has led to the use of this berry in a host of products, including a weight loss supplement, in health drinks and as an energy enhancer.

If you are wondering why this berry is so special, there’s an easy answer. This once unknown fruit has one of the highest antioxidant contents available. Surpassing the popular grapes by 10 times, and blueberries by twice the antioxidant content, the acai berry is nearly unsurpassed. The popularity of this berry was made common knowledge by a doctor, Nicholas Perricone, when he appeared on Oprah discussing the acai fruit as a super food.

The list of health benefits are impressive. While still being studied, the acai berry is believed to increase energy, improve stamina, and improve mental focus. It also helps improve sleep, which will in turn contribute to increased energy. This overall well-being may be an incentive enough to try products containing the acai berry.

The antioxidant content is also believed to lead to better heart health. The antioxidants have been shown to regulate cholesterol levels in research. High cholesterol is proven to be a leading cause in heart disease. This may mean that acai berry will be proven in preventing heart disease and extending life expectancy.

Anti-oxidants play a strong role in maintaining blood circulation. This affects not only heart health, but also overall well-being. Good blood circulation may also contribute to enhanced sexual performance, which has also been reported as a benefit of the acai berry.

Digestive problems have also been improved through use of acai berry products. This is due to the high level of fiber, good for both elderly people and anyone else with digestive problems. Eating fruits and berries is a natural laxative, but by consuming foods with a high fiber content will help the body resume natural bowel function.

Perhaps the most exciting benefits of the acai berry have been the potential for fighting cancer. Studies have shown that the antioxidants found in these berries may be effective in not only treating, but destroying cancer cells. This cure has been sought after for years, and the potential that acai berries hold is promising.

When taking acai berries, how long do you have to wait until you experience benefits? Depending on which product you are taking, most people say there are visible results within two weeks to one month. Word of mouth from the tremendous health benefits have increased the sales of acai berry products. This well kept secret from the Amazon Rain Forrest may be the answer that the natives have known for years now: nature is the best medicine.